EKU breaks ground on new Model Laboratory School: ‘New era in education'
President David McFaddin hailed the day as a defining moment for EKU and the future of educator preparation. 'This new facility will be a hub of innovation and research—one of the most distinctive environments in the nation for post-secondary teacher preparation,' McFaddin said. 'We're celebrating the impact of immersive learning and shaping tomorrow's educators.'
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The new Model Laboratory School, Kentucky's only public P–12 teaching lab, will enhance EKU's reputation as a leader in teacher education by offering hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences to both undergraduate and graduate students. Through its unique integration of research, instruction, and real-world practice, Model Lab plays a vital role in preparing students for a variety of educational careers.
'Innovation is key to solving Kentucky's teacher shortage,' said State Representative James Tipton, chairman of the Kentucky House Higher Education Committee. 'This new facility redefines how we prepare future educators and underscores the importance of investing in the teacher pipeline.'
Backed by $149.1 million in funding from the Kentucky General Assembly during the 2021–22 and 2023–24 sessions, the new Model Lab will rise on EKU's south campus, near the Leslie Leach Driving Range on Kit Carson Drive. Its proximity to the Kentucky Center for School Safety and the Department of Criminal Justice Training paves the way for interdisciplinary partnerships, particularly in school safety innovation.
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The campus will include Model Lab's elementary, middle, and high school facilities, as well as EKU's early childhood development center. It will also feature college classrooms, faculty offices, an auditorium, a lecture hall, and a professional learning center, creating a fully immersive environment for EKU education students.
Kentucky leaders and EKU alumni see the investment as a powerful force for community and statewide transformation. 'As a proud EKU alumna and parent of a Model Lab graduate, I know the impact this new school and the School of Education will have for generations,' said State Rep. Deanna Frazier Gordon. 'This is a win for our students, educators, and Madison County.'
'This project cements Madison County as a model for educational advancement,' added State Sen. Jared Carpenter. 'It brings resources, talent, and prestige to our region.'
In tandem with the groundbreaking, EKU formally launched its new School of Education. Housed within CEAHS, the School of Education will provide a more visible identity for EKU's longstanding commitment to preparing high-quality educators.
'The School of Education is more than just a new name—it's a recommitment to our mission,' said Dr. Elizabeth Smith, dean of CEAHS. 'It strengthens our identity and expands our impact across Kentucky and beyond.'
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A new pilot program beginning this fall will allow first-year education majors to integrate directly into the Model Lab environment. Students will take core courses co-taught by EKU and Model faculty, blending theory with immediate application in a P–12 setting.
John Williamson, superintendent of Model Lab and dean of P–12 education, emphasized the significance of the collaboration. 'As the only lab school in the state, this partnership reflects a deep and renewed commitment to preparing quality educators for Kentucky.'
Construction of the new Model Laboratory School is expected to be completed in time for the 2027–28 academic year.
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